Pullar edged out as Byrne takes win in Salt Ayre series opener

The 2015 Edge Cycle Works Salt Ayre Series got under way on Tuesday evening.

In the E/1/2/3 race a field of 15 riders made for an exciting race.

Dillon Byrne of Champion System VCUK and Bolton-le-Sands’ Jack Pullar of Velosure Starley Primal continually attacked with the two Elite riders breaking away.

Julian Pearson of Team Moda-Anon and Ellis Kirkbride of North City Velo were in a break that held a gap of 15 to 20 seconds for 10 laps before finally being caught by the chasing bunch. With three laps to go further attacks splintered the group as Byrne and Pullar escaped to contest a two-up sprint.

Dillon took the win by a clear three bike lengths with Ellis Kirkbride leading home the bunch for third in a tight sprint with Jake Cowen of the Nab RT taking fourth.

In the Category 3/4 race a field of 40 riders, including youths, juniors and women took to the start line.

Any attempt to break free from the main pack was quickly chased down and after 45 minutes of racing the bunch finished together.

Andy Horwood of Chorley CC took the win from local rider Ryan Coulton of North City Velo with Stephen Dent of Nevis Cycles RT in third.

Gabby Duckworth of Lune RCC, another local rider, was the first woman across the line.

The series continues next Tuesday with a women’s only race followed by a 2/3/4 race.